Installing a 2019 subaru crosstrek lift kit is probably the single best modification you can do if you're planning on taking your Subie anywhere further than the local grocery store parking lot. Let's be real, while the stock Crosstrek is already pretty capable for a crossover, it still feels a little bit "tame" when you're staring down a rocky fire road or a deep mud puddle. Adding a lift kit changes the whole personality of the car, turning it from a sensible commuter into a genuine "battlewagon."
If you've been scrolling through Instagram or Reddit looking at those beefed-up Subarus with the chunky tires and roof racks, you've likely noticed they all have one thing in common: a bit of extra height. But before you go out and buy the first kit you see, there are a few things we should talk about to make sure you don't end up regretting your purchase or, worse, breaking your daily driver.
Why Even Bother Lifting a Crosstrek?
You might be wondering if it's worth the hassle. The 2019 Crosstrek comes from the factory with about 8.7 inches of ground clearance, which is actually more than some full-sized SUVs. So, why add more?
The biggest reason is clearance for bigger tires. You can only fit so much rubber under those stock wheel arches. By installing a 2019 subaru crosstrek lift kit, you open up the possibility of running meatier all-terrain tires like the Falken Wildpeaks or BFGoodrich KO2s. These tires give you better grip in the dirt and look absolutely killer.
Then there's the "approach angle." When you're driving up a steep hill or over a curb-sized rock, the front bumper is the first thing that's going to hit. A lift kit helps keep that plastic bumper intact. Plus, let's be honest—it just looks way better. A lifted Crosstrek has a stance that says "I actually go outside," even if you're just driving to work in the rain.
Types of Lift Kits You'll Encounter
Not all lift kits are created equal. When you start shopping around, you're basically going to see two main categories.
1. Spacer Lifts (The "Budget-Friendly" Option)
Most people go for a spacer lift. These are essentially heavy-duty spacers (often made of aluminum or steel) that bolt onto the top of your factory struts. They're relatively cheap, easy to install, and they keep your factory ride quality mostly the same. If you just want the look and a bit of extra room for tires, a 1.5-inch or 2-inch spacer kit is usually the way to go.
2. Full Suspension Lifts (The "Pro" Route)
If you're serious about off-roading, you might look at a full suspension swap. This involves replacing your factory struts and springs with upgraded versions designed for the extra height. Brands like Ironman 4x4 or Bilstein offer kits that not only lift the car but also improve how it handles the bumps. It's more expensive, for sure, but it's a game-changer if you're doing high-speed desert runs or technical trails.
What About the CV Joints and Axles?
This is where things get a bit technical, but bear with me because it's important. When you lift a car, you're changing the angle at which the axles connect to the wheels. Subaru CV (constant velocity) joints are pretty tough, but they have their limits.
If you go too high—say, over 2 inches—you're putting a lot of stress on those joints. Over time, this can lead to torn boots or premature axle failure. This is why many high-quality 2019 subaru crosstrek lift kit options include "multi-link spacers" or subframe drop kits. These spacers help keep the rear wheels centered in the wheel well and keep the drivetrain geometry closer to factory specs. If a kit doesn't mention rear subframe spacers, you might want to keep looking.
How It Affects Your Daily Drive
It's not all sunshine and mountain views; there are some trade-offs you should be aware of. First off, your fuel economy is going to take a hit. It's not the lift itself that kills the MPG as much as the bigger, heavier tires you're likely to put on afterward. You can expect to lose 2-4 miles per gallon depending on how aggressive you go.
Then there's the handling. By raising the center of gravity, the car will naturally have a bit more body roll in the corners. It won't feel like it's going to tip over or anything crazy, but it definitely won't feel like a snappy little hatchback anymore. It feels more like a truck—which, for some people, is actually a plus.
What About Subaru EyeSight?
This is a common question for 2019 owners. Since the EyeSight cameras are calibrated based on the car's height and angle, will a lift kit mess them up? Generally speaking, most owners report that a 1.5-inch or 2-inch lift doesn't affect the system at all. The cameras are pretty good at adapting. However, if you go really big or change the rake of the car (making the front higher than the back), you might run into issues with the pre-collision braking or adaptive cruise control. It's always a good idea to keep an eye on it after the install.
Installation: DIY or Shop?
Can you do this in your driveway? Absolutely, if you have the right tools and a Saturday to kill. You'll need a floor jack, jack stands, a good socket set, and maybe a pry bar. The front is usually pretty straightforward, but the rear can be a bit of a pain because you have to drop the subframe slightly to get the spacers in.
If you're not comfortable messing with your suspension, any reputable off-road shop can knock this out in a few hours. Just factor in the cost of labor, which can range anywhere from $300 to $600 depending on where you live.
Don't Forget the Alignment!
This is the one step people always try to skip to save money, and it's the biggest mistake you can make. Whenever you touch the suspension, your alignment is going to be thrown out of whack. Your tires will be pointing slightly inward or outward, and your steering wheel might be crooked.
If you don't get an alignment immediately after installing your 2019 subaru crosstrek lift kit, you will ruin your expensive new tires in a matter of months. Most shops recommend driving the car for about 50-100 miles to let the new parts "settle" and then taking it straight to an alignment rack.
Picking the Right Tire to Match
A lift without tires is like buying a tuxedo and wearing flip-flops. To really make the most of that new clearance, you'll want to look at a 225/65R17 or even a 235/75R15 (if you decide to downsize your wheels to 15-inchers for more sidewall). The 15-inch wheel look is super popular in the Crosstrek community right now because it gives you that "balloon tire" look that absorbs bumps way better than the stock 17 or 18-inch rims.
Wrapping It Up
At the end of the day, adding a 2019 subaru crosstrek lift kit is about making the car work better for your lifestyle. If you spend your weekends hiking, camping, or exploring trails that make your heart beat a little faster, the extra two inches of clearance will give you the confidence to keep going where others turn back.
Just remember to do your research, don't cheap out on the subframe spacers, and for the love of all things holy, get an alignment when you're done. Your Subie will thank you, and you'll look awesome doing it. Happy trails!